Spend three exciting days in the capital of Kosovo – Pristina. It is snowing. Snow makes me extremely happy. Because it feels surreal. My surrounding is like a fairy-tale. I am walking towards the city centre, passing across the big cathedral of Mother Theresa Catholic church, to my right side is the University of Pristina. Walked up to the intriguing building of Pristina International Public Library, next to it is an Orthodox church built by the Serbians. While walking in the park a sudden feeling of immense gratitude is enveloping my whole being while having thoughts of – if I die tomorrow, I will never have any regrets, knowing that I have lived my life to the fullest. Life has been good to me. It was not perfect. But it was very good. Very good is an understatement. I have seen the world. Not so much. But part of it. It gives me a kind of feeling like having a reservoir of wealth beyond material riches. Learning more about myself that I can thrive beautifully in any place where I would live for a short period of time without knowing any one at the time of my arrival amazes me. I learn how to assimilate a culture that is totally different from me without losing my individuality, retaining the values that I think are essential, while keeping an open mind to adopt to a particular lifestyle. It can go together. You can always accept and embrace a culture that is different from your upbringing as long as you are in touch with your inner self and your values are intact. Otherwise, you might get swayed and forget about where you come from. Being conscious of your roots and learning that you can go further than you can imagine keeps your feet on the ground. Humility is indeed a virtue. Being true to yourself, when you can say “no” to a certain situation even if others viewed it not cool is okay. You don’t have to conform to a short-lived fashion and fads if it does not makes you feel good inside. It is better to speak your mind even if others may not agree with what you think is right and wrong. And if you can demonstrate what is “respect” through your actions and deeds, people will respect you and in return you earn their trust.
I still am dreaming of having my own hostel in one of the most beautiful islands in my country, Palawan – someday. I still dream of writing a book(s) and become a renowned published author – one day. I still want to have my own family and settle down – soon (day) ;). And the list goes on. I have a feeling that these will happen at the time that are designed to be.
For now, I am making one of my dreams come true – traveling the world while learning and experiencing the different culture of every country, city or town I am inhabiting.
Cheers to more success in 2016!
Hugs and kisses, Mafey xx
Me 🙂 with the back drop of the intriguing building – Kosovo’s Public Library
PS, my current location: Tirana, Albania 🙂
maftravelgraphy 